A Number of Factors Made Duke Paulus' Choice

It was earlier today that Christian Brothers Academy point guard Greg Paulus ended the speculation surrounding his recruiting process and dropped a magnificent surprise on all Blue Devil faithful.

While as early as yesterday it was thought that Notre Dame was a lock to land the 6'1" playmaker, Paulus instead announced that he would attend Duke University beginning in the 2005-06 season.

According to Greg's father, Dave Paulus, there was not one specific reason that Greg chose Duke. Instead, it was a variety of aspect that made the choice for his son.

"I think there were a number of factors that made him choose Duke," said Dave, just a few hours after Greg announced his decision. "First of all it's a great school academically and environmentally. It also has a great basketball tradition, and Greg wants to compete at the highest level. Thirdly, Duke has one of the greatest coaches of all time, and Greg has developed a special relationship with Coach K. And fourthly, the opportunity and timing to come into the program were perfect."

Paulus, who averaged 22 points per game as sophomore at Christian Brothers, is the first Duke commitment from the class of 2005, and is considered by recruiting experts such as Dave Telep as one of the top 15 players in that class. He chose the Blue Devils over Notre Dame (who was thought to be his leader), rival North Carolina, and Xavier.

The other positive that could come out of the Paulus commitment is that it could be a great addition to the Duke football program as well. Greg is a standout quarterback, and while he hasn't yet decided if will play both sports at Duke, it is an option that will be given serious consideration.

"Football is definitely an option, but right now he's looking forward to coming in on the basketball scholarship," Dave Paulus said. "He was offered in both sports, and every school that's recruited him offered him in both sports, so it's a non-issue. If he chose to play both it would not be problem."

Until his decision on football is reach, however, Paulus' goal is simple.

"Greg is just looking forward to earning his spot on the team," Dave said, "trying to earn his spot as the starting point guard."

I should be talking to Greg tomorrow, so check back for a Q&A session with the newest Blue Devil!